The Tecno Pova Neo series consistently delivers impressive value in the budget smartphone market. But with two iterations – the 5G and the Neo 2 – choosing the right one can be tricky. This comprehensive comparison will dissect their features, performance, and overall worth to help you make an informed decision.
🏆 Quick Verdict
The Tecno Pova Neo 5G takes the crown thanks to its significantly faster Dimensity 810 chipset and 5G connectivity. While the Neo 2 offers a slightly more mature design and potentially better camera optimization in certain scenarios, the Neo 5G's performance advantage makes it the better overall choice for most users.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 | HSDPA 850 / 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | LTE | LTE |
| 5G bands | SA/NSA | - |
| Speed | HSPA 42.2/5.76 Mbps, LTE Cat4 150/50 Mbps, 5G | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE / 5G | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, September 23 | 2022, September 26 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, September 26 | Available. Released 2022, October 03 |
| Body |
|---|
| Build | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back | Glass front, plastic frame, plastic back |
| Dimensions | 170.8 x 77.9 x 9.5 mm (6.72 x 3.07 x 0.37 in) | 170.9 x 77.8 x 9.6 mm (6.73 x 3.06 x 0.38 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| | Splash resistant | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 1080 x 2460 pixels (~395 ppi density) | 720 x 1640 pixels (~263 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.8 inches, 109.8 cm2 (~82.5% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.82 inches, 110.5 cm2 (~83.1% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD, 120Hz, 500 nits | IPS LCD, 90Hz |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Octa-core (2x2.4 GHz Cortex-A76 & 6x2.0 GHz Cortex-A55) | Octa-core (2x2.0 GHz Cortex-A75 & 6x1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| Chipset | Mediatek Dimensity 810 (6 nm) | Mediatek MT6769Z Helio G85 (12 nm) |
| GPU | Mali-G57 MC2 | Mali-G52 MC2 |
| OS | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 | Android 12, HIOS 8.6 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 128GB 4GB RAM | 64GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 4GB RAM, 128GB 6GB RAM |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 50 MP, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens | 16 MP, (wide), AF
Secondary unknown camera |
| Features | Quad-LED flash, HDR, panorama | Dual-LED flash, HDR, panorama |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Features | Dual-LED flash, HDR | LED flash |
| Single | 8 MP | 8 MP |
| Video | 1440p@30fps | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes, with stereo speakers | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | Yes |
| NFC | No | Yes (LG6n only) |
| Positioning | GPS | GPS, GLONASS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Yes |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, gyro, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (side-mounted), accelerometer, proximity, compass |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | 18W wired | 18W wired |
| Type | 6000 mAh | 7000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Sprint Blue, Sapphire Black | Uranolite Gray, Virtual Blue, Orange Magma |
| Models | LE6j | LG6n |
| Price | About 190 EUR | About 240 EUR |
Tecno Pova Neo 5G
- Faster Dimensity 810 chipset
- 5G Connectivity
- Potentially higher refresh rate display
- Good battery life
- Potentially less refined camera software
- Design might be less premium than Neo 2
Tecno Pova Neo 2
- Potentially better camera optimization
- Mature software
- Slightly more refined design
- Slower Helio G85 chipset
- No 5G connectivity
- Lower refresh rate display
Display Comparison
Both phones feature a large 6.6-inch display, likely with an IPS LCD panel and a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels (FHD+). Expect similar viewing experiences in terms of color accuracy and brightness, though the Neo 5G might have a slightly higher refresh rate (potentially 120Hz) for smoother scrolling, while the Neo 2 is likely 60Hz. The Neo 2 might have slightly better color calibration due to more mature software.
Camera Comparison
Both phones likely feature a triple-camera setup, with a primary sensor around 48MP. The Neo 2 might have slightly better image processing due to more mature software and potentially a more refined primary sensor. However, the Neo 5G's more powerful chipset could allow for better computational photography features. Low-light performance is likely comparable.
Performance
This is where the Neo 5G shines. The Dimensity 810 is a substantial upgrade over the Helio G85. Expect noticeably faster app loading times, smoother gaming performance, and better overall responsiveness. The Neo 5G's 6nm process also contributes to better power efficiency. The Neo 2 will handle everyday tasks adequately, but will struggle with demanding games and heavy multitasking.
Battery Life
Both devices boast a large 6000mAh battery, promising all-day battery life. Charging speeds are identical at 18W wired, so expect similar charging times. Battery optimization might differ slightly based on software and chipset efficiency, potentially giving the Neo 5G a slight edge.
Buying Guide
The Tecno Pova Neo 5G is ideal for users who prioritize speed, future-proofing with 5G, and smoother multitasking. The Tecno Pova Neo 2 is a good option for those on a tighter budget who value a potentially more refined camera experience and don't need 5G.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Is the Tecno Pova Neo 5G worth the extra money?
Yes, if you value performance and 5G connectivity. The Dimensity 810 chipset provides a significant upgrade over the Helio G85.
❓ Which phone has the better camera?
The Tecno Pova Neo 2 might have slightly better camera optimization due to more mature software, but the Neo 5G's chipset could enable better computational photography.